DIY Wrapping Paper Bows

This article is written by Karissa Tunis For more on this topic, check out the full Gift Giving collection

I think it is safe to say that everyone loves receiving a beautifully wrapped gift! There is something about those crisp corners, pretty paper, and eye-catching bows that can make you really feel extra special!

But I think it is also safe to bet that not everyone actually enjoys creating these masterpieces. And if you are like me, you haven’t quite mastered your bow-making skills just yet.

About two years ago I learned a little tip that changed my gift wrapping. I now spend much less time and money, and I think my gifts turn out pretty cute! I doubt I will be winning any contests, but I think my bows at least win a few “Oooo’s” and “Ahhh’s”.

Use the wrapping paper to make your own custom bows – it keeps everything matching without needing to spend any additional money, and allows you to use up all of those scraps which helps to save more money

The reason I like matching paper is because if you need to wrap multiple gifts, it looks pretty to have them all match. It also works out in your favor if you run out of one roll in the middle of a wrap job. Now you can mix and match and it will actually look cute and intentional – if done the right way 😉

I also like to mix the paper to make my bows. This allows for an added pop of color and variety.

Below is an example of a time I ran out of paper. Thankfully I had 2 more matching rolls on hand. So instead of wasting the small piece, I mixed it with another matching pattern, and the gifts turned out super cute!

I like to stack my presents. I always put the smallest package on top and I add one of my custom bows – all made from the wrapping paper I already had. To try this, scroll below for my step-by-step guide and photo examples.

To make your own custom wrapping paper bow, follow these easy steps:

First you need to purchase your paper. Again, I recommend buying at least two matching rolls. These were purchased from the dollar store, so they do not need to be expensive!

Wrap your presents

Cut a few long rectangles from your wrapping paper – use any scraps if possible!

Fold the rectangles in half and tape the FOLDED side down in either the middle or corner of your present (wherever you want your bow).

If you like a full bow like I do, I recommend taping another folded rectangle for added bow volume. I overlap the folds slightly so that bows look like one giant piece.

Focus on one folded rectangle at a time. Cut slits in the paper up to the tape (just be careful to not cut too thin).

Each cut should be giving you double paper strands since the wrapping paper is folded in half. Here you can see I have 5 stripes on top, and 5 on the bottom.

Curl the paper by dragging a scissors along the paper. Start at the base and work towards the edge – BE CAREFUL! I like to start with the top row, and then do the bottom. Make sure you curl the paper in a way that shows off the print.

Once you finish curling one side, repeat on the other side.

Once you are finished curling the paper, fluff your bow. I like to intertwine some of the strands.

Here is what my gift looked like when finished. Obviously I used the blue snowflake paper to wrap my gift, and the silver snowman paper to make my bow.

Here I wanted to show you what it looks like to use the same paper for both the gift and the bow.

Personally I think it is pretty, but it doesn’t stand out nearly as much.

Now all I need to do is add a gift tag and these presents are ready to go under the tree! For our free printable gift tags click here. Happy Holidays!